A recent study from the Centers for Disease Control found mask mandates made less than a 2 percent difference in the daily death rates from the Chinese coronavirus and an even smaller percentage in case growth.

From March 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020, the CDC found that in 2,313 American counties where mask mandates were issued, daily growth rates of the Chinese coronavirus decreased by only 0.5 percent in the first 20 days of being issued; they went down 1.8 percent within 81-100 days.

Daily death growth rates from the virus decreased by 0.7 percent within the first 20 days of the mandates and 1.9 percent in 81-100 days.

“Daily case and death growth rates before implementation of mask mandates were not statistically different from the reference period,” the CDC study states.

States—focusing on changes in coronavirus case and death rates—began reopening while the CDC study was being conducted.

“Changes in daily COVID-19 case and death growth rates were not statistically significant 1–20 and 21–40 days after restrictions were lifted,” the report stated.

The CDC found that within the 3,067 U.S. counties where in-person dining was restored, there was a 1.1 percent increase in daily growth rates of coronavirus cases within 81-100 days and a 3 percent growth in the daily death rate.

“It is notable that no Randomized Controlled Trial from Oxford University has shown 90 percent effectiveness of masks against COVID,” West Texas Dr. Richard Bartlett told Texas Scorecard after reviewing the CDC’s study. “However, Oxford University did have a Randomized Controlled Trial showing 90 percent of COVID hospitalizations and ER visits might be avoided with early treatment with an inexpensive, safe, readily available medication.”

I’m NOT saying it’s a cure, but I would say it’s VERY good news!

On March 2, Gov. Greg Abbott announced last week he was ending his statewide mask mandate. His order took effect this Wednesday, March 10.

This week, the City of Austin defied Abbott’s latest executive order, insisting to continue enforcing mask-wearing. Attorney General Ken Paxton is suing the city.

Meanwhile, State Rep. Matt Schaefer (R–Tyler) has filed House Bill 2097, which would ban mask mandates without legislative approval, and HB 2098, which would  take away officials’ ability to fine citizens for not following their emergency orders.

Concerned citizens may contact their state representative and state senator.

If your local officials are still mandating masks, please contact us at rmontoya@texasscorecard.com.

Robert Montoya

Born in Houston, Robert Montoya is an investigative reporter for Texas Scorecard. He believes transparency is the obligation of government.

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